Global data on the perceptions and psychological impact of the Covid-19 pandemic suggests the outbreak and restriction measures have had significant negative welfare effects. However, negative psychological symptoms do not emerge with the same intensity for all countries. In western Libya, citizens live under the dual threat of armed conflict and Covid -19. The situation there, merits investigation of citizens’ sensitivity to the pandemic under a pre-existing crisis. The current research aims to contribute to global data on the beliefs, perceptions and psychological impact of the pandemic. It aims also to extend current understanding by examining how coping strategies namely, perceived coping self-efficacy and perceived social support, moderate the effects of the two crises. Furthermore, it intends to explore the additive effect, if any, the outbreak has on the psychological impact of armed conflict. An online survey targeting people in the region during the first surge in Covid-19 cases was completed by a final sample of 717 respondents. Results show the negative psychological impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is not globally consistent. While citizens of western Libya share the normative belief that their government’s response to the outbreak is insufficient, their support for preventative measures to curb the pandemic diverges negatively from global trends. The ongoing civil war has compounded the already dire social and economic conditions, resulting in Covid-19 having little additive effect on citizens’ psychological wellbeing. Moreover, it was found that citizens do not have adequate personal coping mechanisms to deal with the impact of armed conflict. However, drawing on social capital, in the form of perceived social support, is thought to buffer the impact of conflict, though the socio-political and economic circumstances may limit this. The findings are discussed in relation to strategy implications for the government and the international Covid-19 response in Libya.
BACKGROUND: People with vestibular disorders experience symptoms which put them at risk of reduced wellbeing during the Covid-19 pandemic.OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on vestibular symptoms, access to healthcare and daily activities amongst people living with a vestibular disorder.METHODS: An online survey was completed by 124 people in the UK with a vestibular disorder. The survey incorporated the Vertigo Symptom Scale-Short Form and questions regarding health status, healthcare received, daily activities and employment during Covid-19.RESULTS: The Covid-19 pandemic affected perceptions of wellbeing. 54.1% rated their health as worse now than before the pandemic. Vertigo, unsteadiness, dizziness, tinnitus, loss of concentration/memory, and headaches were the most exacerbated symptoms. Respondents reported changes to their daily activities including reduced social contact (83%) and exercise (54.3%). Some experienced healthcare delays or received a remote appointment. Remote care was perceived as convenient, but barriers included difficulty communicating, trouble concentrating and perceived unsuitability for initial appointments. Unintended benefits of the pandemic included less social pressure, avoiding busy environments, and engaging in self-care. CONCLUSION: The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic are diverse. Clinical services should be mindful that Covid-19 can exacerbate vestibular and allied neuropsychiatric symptoms that require acute, multi-disciplinary intervention, but not lose sight of the potential benefit and cost saving associated with promoting self-management and delivering remote care, especially post-diagnosis.
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